Kia Details New 8-Speed Transmission

Kia Motors is providing full details about its new 8-speed automatic transmission designed for front-wheel drive vehicles that debuted with the 2017 Cadenza.

The new 8AT, which has been designed in-house by a Korean manufacturer, provides similar dimensions to a conventional 6-speed automatic transmission and weight about 3.5 kilograms (7.71 pounds) less. The 8AT includes a smaller oil pump and can use hydraulic oil more efficiently.

The transmission reduces the number of control valves to 12 from 20, which results in quicker gear shifts and a more direct mechanical link to the engine.

It includes an additional clutch and gear over Kia's 6AT, and the ratio between the top gear and lowest gear has been increased by 34% over the 6AT.

The transmission debuts on the 2017 Cadena that will go on sale this year. It will be paired with the 3.3L V-6 GDI engine. Kia plans to roll out the transmission in other mid-sized and larger front-wheel-drive models.